Writing a cover letter is, for most people, one of the most dreaded parts of the entire job search. People usually have fairly strong feelings around writing -- they either love it or they hate it with a passion so strong that even the thought of putting “pen to paper” sends them into a panic.

Recently, we spoke with a couple of seasoned recruiting professionals and identified the top 10 non-traditional careers for life science professionals. One of the popular choices was in the medical technical writing field.

When evaluating which candidate to offer the job, employers and hiring managers are not only assessing your skill level and on-the-job competencies, but they are also on the lookout for the right “fit” for that particular role.

Being fired, while discouraging in the moment, is not a career killer. In fact, sometimes the jolt of getting that proverbial “pink slip” can actually inspire you take stock of your wider career path and goals as you put yourself back on the job market.

Crafting a well-organized, powerful resume is one of the most important aspects of being on the job market. But, all of your hard work on your job application materials can be undone in a second if you make some of these grave resume mistakes.

In this graceless age where people look at their phones when you are talking to them, only communicate via text or email, scroll head down on their phone while a speaker is presenting, post inappropriate pictures and commentary on Facebook, it’s no wonder many people do not send thank you notes.

When you are constantly hearing, “Thank you for your time, but we went with another candidate,” or you’re regularly submitting applications online, but not ever getting a response back, it can be frustrating.

Have you ever experienced a career epiphany but lacked the resolve to act on it? Don’t feel bad, especially if “acting on it” meant leaving a secure, albeit unfulfilling, job for a new career in a different industry.

The moment you step on the job market, you’re selling yourself. Yes, you, the job seeker, are a “brand,” and each touchpoint you have with a potential new employer is an opportunity to “sell” that brand, that vision of your candidacy, the promise of yourself as a future team member and employer.

Not only are interviewers tasked with evaluating whether or not you’re a good fit for their organization and the role, but you also should take every opportunity you can to evaluate if the position, company, and team is a good match for your own career goals and needs.

Figuring out how to become a more qualified, competitive job candidate can seem overwhelming. Often it feels as if you only have a handful of options to build your resume in any meaningful way – like earning additional degrees or simply gaining several more years of experience in your role.

Results from a recent BioSpace Community Survey indicated that 67% of life science respondents are likely to look for a job in the next 12 months. With an influx of talent in the market, how can life science professionals set themselves apart to make a positive impression and land the job?

Based on research done by the MSL Society, the MSL role could grow by 20% in the next 1-2 years and increase by upwards of 35% in Asia and South America. We spoke with an expert to find out more about this innovative position.